The Lancer (LA series in Australia, where it was called the Chrysler Valiant Lancer initially) was first launched in 1973 and proved to be particularly successful in rallies, a claim that it retains to this day. At the time of its launch, Mitsubishi had the Minica kei car and the compact Galant, so the Lancer served to fill the gap in the small to lower-medium segment of the growing Japanese market. Twelve models were launched, ranging from a basic 1.2 L sedan to a more powerful rally-derived 1600 GSR model.

There were three body styles, 2-door coupes, 4-door sedans, and a rarely seen 5-door station wagon.

Celeste

1980 LC Lancer

In 1975, the Lancer was complemented by a hatchback coupé called the Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste (also called the Mitsubishi Celeste or Colt Celeste in some markets; it was the Chrysler Lancer Coupé in Australia and the Plymouth Arrow in the United States), and sold with 1.4 L and 1.6 L options (a 2.0 L model was added later).

Facelift and exports

A facelifted Lancer followed soon after, called the LB series in Australia (and without the Valiant tag). It was this series that emerged in the United States as the Dodge Colt for the 1977 model year, taking over from a badge-engineered Mitsubishi Galant from the previous year. It was offered for one more model year before the Dodge Colt name was transferred to the front wheel drive Mitsubishi Mirage.

In 1979, the Lancer EX was unveiled in Japan. Two engines were only offered back then, a 1.4 L MCA-JET equipped engine paired with Mitsubishi's Silent Shaft Technology, which generated 80 hp (60 kW) and a 1.6 L engine that generated 85 hp (63 kW) and 100 hp (75 kW). The MCA-JET system was something new than the used carburator system. The MCA stands for Mitsubishi Clean Air which meant that the EX passes both Japan and US emission standards whilst the new cylinder head design of the engine gave way for a third or Jet valve that introduces an extra swirl of air to the combustion chamber swirling the fuel-air mixture for a cleaner, efficient and thorough burn. Another new breakthrough in the Lancer is the Silent Shaft Technology which is actually two counterbalancing shafts that rotate in opposite directions, cancelling the power pulses a normal 4 cylinder engine would be inherent back then, reducing engine noise and vibration providing a smoother ride. The 1.8 L Sirius 80 engines was then introduced in the Lancer in 1980, along with a new 70 hp (52 kW), 1.2 L engine a year after providing a wider choice of engines for the Lancer. Also, a turbocharged, 135 PS (133 hp/99 kW) engine was added in 1980 for a sportier performance and an Intercooler system was integrated in the existing turbocharged engine to produce 165 PS (163 hp/121 kW) in 1983.

Lancer EX 1800GSR and GT Turbo

In 1980, The Lancer EX was introduced with a 1.8 L turbocharged 4-cylinder option known as the 1800GSR and GT Turbo. The first generation 1800GSR and GT only came out generating 135 PS (133 hp/99 kW) only not until in 1983 where the Intercooler was introduced that made the 1800GSR Turbo achieve 165 PS (163 hp/121 kW). No other information was found if whether the 1800GT Turbo also had the Intercooler in 1983.

Lancer EX 2000 Turbo

Rally Version of the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo

In Europe, the Lancer EX was offered with a turbocharged 2.0 L 4–cylinder engine known as the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo. It was the first Lancer to use the very first 4g63 engine which was then used in succeeding models such as the Mitsubishi Galant VR 4 and the Lancer Evolutions I to IX. It achieved a maximum output of 168 bhp (125 kW) and manages a top speed of125 mph (201 km/h) in less than 15.5 s. A new feature on this model is that it is equipped with ECI or Advanced Electronically-Controlled Fuel Injection which gave the Lancer more power and outstanding fuel economy as it did 23.0 mpg in city driving and 28.8 to 37.2 mpg in highway driving. A rally version of the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo was made for the 1000 Lakes Rally that gave 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) .

Philippines

Local model of a Lancer EX with a 1.6 L engine

In The Philippines, the Lancer EX (which is popularly known as the Box Type Lancer) was offered with three variants. These variants are the SL, GSR, and GT. The Lancer SL was the base model with either a 1.2 L engine that generated 70 hp (52 kW) and the MCA-JET 1.4 L engine that generated 80 hp (60 kW) . The GSR was equipped with a 1.6 L engine that generated 100 hp (75 kW) with 5 speed transmission and 4 wheel disc brakes. A 1.8 L option was then available for the GSR. The GT had the 1.6 L engine that also generated 100 hp (75 kW) (there were instances that Turbochargers were also introduced as standard option with the GT) with 5 speed transmission, 4 wheel disc brakes as standard kit and wore the Lancer EX turbo front airdam and rear spoiler. All engines were equipped with the Silent Shaft Technology (the SL had the 1.4 L MCA-JET engine) and soon after, Automatic was available for SL and GSR variants.

Third generation

Third Generation

Production

1982–1987

Body style(s)

3-door hatchback
4-door sedan
5-door hatchback
5-door station wagon

Layout

Front engine, front-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive

Engine(s)

1.6 L I4
1.8 L I4 diesel

Related

Mitsubishi Mirage
Proton Saga
Proton Iswara

1987 Mitsubishi Lancer Estate

Dodge Colt 3-door (US)

In 1982, a new model was launched called the Lancer Fiore also know as third version, based on the Mitsubishi Mirage. The Fiore was often sold as a Lancer in international markets, but also the Mirage Sedan and, with the five-door hatchback model, remained in production for a good part of the 1980s. In Australia, it would eventually be sold as the Mitsubishi Colt Sedan. Thus, Mitsubishi had two similarly sized models competing in the same market segment.

The following year, both Mirage and Lancer lines were renewed from the third generation. The Mirage four-door and Lancer sedan became the same car. Fuel injected and turbocharged models were an integral part of this range. A station wagon was added in 1985, and it spawned a raised, four wheel drive version. Often, the Mirage (or Colt) would be the name used on the three-door hatchback, and the Lancer name used on the remainder.

This model formed the basis of the original Proton sedan, the Saga, Malaysia's first car, which was still in production until early 2008.

In 1988, a more aerodynamic-looking Lancer was launched, following the shape of the Galant. A five-door hatchback was added to the range. The Mirage and Lancer nomenclature continued. The station wagon continued on the old platform and shape, as did, in some markets, a five-door version of the Mirage. In Australia, all models were sold as the Mitsubishi Lancer. By that time, the Lancer name was shared with the Dodge Lancer sold in North America. The sedan was sold as the Mirage Aspire in Japan.

In some markets a 'van' model was produced, being the three-door hatchback (which had an upright profile) without rear side window (this triggered a reduced sales tax burden in the Dutch market).

It was only in 1991 that there was greater differentiation between the Mirage and Lancer. Although both were on the same platform, the Lancer sedan received different sheetmetal from the Mirage four-door. The Mirage variant was sold in North America under the Eagle Summit name. Minivan models, such as the Mitsubishi Space Runner and Mitsubishi Chariot, were mechanically related. In 1993, the Lancer wagon, named the Libero in Japan, was launched. An electric version was also released named the Libero EV that ran on NiCd batterys[1]. A V6 variant was also introduced with only 1.6 L, making it the smallest mass-produced V6. The high-performance, turbocharged GSR version formed the basis of the contemporary Lancer Evolution (or 'Lancer Evo') from September 1993, using the drivetrain of the successful Galant VR-4 rally car.

The Mirage Asti Coupé in Japan was offered as the Lancer Coupé in many export markets.

The fifth generation Lancer was rebadged as the Proton Wira sedan and 5-door hatchback models in Malaysia in 1993 with 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8 L engine capacities. A short-lived 2.0 L diesel model was also available. Currently, the car has stopped production as one of the longest running Proton models in Malaysia after Proton Saga, which is also based on a previous Lancer model. The Proton Wira was recently replaced by Proton's latest model, the Proton Persona.

Australia (1992–1996)

In Australia, this generation was commonly referred to as the CC series. It was sold as a 2-door coupe, as well as a 4-door sedan, wagon and 5-door hatchback (essentially carried over from the previous generation). The GL trim model was the last Lancer to use a carburetor engine. The rest of the range used an EFI engine. This generation was sold until 1996, when it was replaced by the popular CE series model.

In 1995, the Lancer was renewed for its sixth generation, building on the earlier model's format. Apart from the Evo models' continuation, it did not depart from the established Lancer formula. A sedan and wagon (Libero in Japan) were offered, with a related Mirage model. The coupé continued as the Mirage Asti in Japan, known as the Lancer Coupé elsewhere. The 1995 Lancer (Model from 1995-2002 in some countries) is more popularly known as the 1997 Lancer. A turbocharged GSR version continued to be sold until the end of the 1990s. This platform was also the basis for the Mirage, as it was known in North America and various other markets.

From 1996-2004, the Mitsubishi Carisma replaced the Mitsubishi Lancer in some markets.

It is of note, that the Lancer Evolution V was the only Lancer Evolution to gain Mitsubishi the WRC constructors championship. However, driver Tommi Makinen was able to claim four WRC driver's championships for himself, in 1996-1999, driving Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution III, IV, V & VI.

Australia (1996–2004)

In Australia, the sixth sold from 1996-2004. It was designated as the CE series. Like the previous generation, it was available in a variety of body styles, which helped to cater for a more broad audience. The introduction of a sporty MR coupe helped to target this model directly towards a younger audience. The station wagon continued on as a CE model, even though it was essentially carried over from the previous generation. This model had an unusually long model run, becoming increasingly uncompetitive as the years went by and often heavily discounted by dealers. Towards the end of its model run, Mitsubishi introduced some limited edition models (based on the GLi) to remain competitive with its rivals, these editions featured extras such as sports interiors, alloys and body kits off higher spec models. Generally, this generation sold well throughout its production run.

It should be noted that despite the introduction of the eighth generation Lancer Cedia in 2002, the CE series continued to be sold alongside it until mid-2004. The sedan was available in GLi trim, until it was finally discontinued in 2003. The coupe was facelifted and now only available in GLi and MR trims.

Due to its appearance, affordability, and the rise in status of the Lancer Evolution, this generation was quite popular with young car enthusiasts and the aftermarket modified Japanese car scene. Some popular modifications include exhaust systems, suspension, after market stereos and replica Evolution body kits.

The year 2000 saw the release of the seventh-generation Lancer Cedia in Japan (meaning - Century Diamond); though in most markets the seventh generation Lancer continued, built at Mitsubishi's Mizushima plant in Japan. The new model was available in sedan and station wagon forms. The Mirage, apart from the export models, became a different car in Japan that was unrelated to the Lancer. In Europe, the Lancer was not offered in some countries, being too close to the size of the Dutch-built Carisma, so the Evo VII model sold there bore the Carisma name. This is the first generation in many years where the Lancer nameplate is universally used.

In North America, the Lancer Cedia was introduced in 2002 as a direct replacement for the Mirage. It is powered by a 2.0 L 4G94 engine producing 120 hp (89 kW) and 130 ft·lbf (176 N·m) of torque.

In Australia, the eighth generation Lancer was introduced as the CG series in July 2002 with the 2.0 L 4G94 engine. It was introduced as a replacement for the seventh generation sedan, and was sold alongside the popular seventh generation coupe.

Mid-generation facelift (2003-06)

For 2004, a heavily restyled Lancer surfaced with a front facia that brought it into line with the Mitsubishi corporate look, as well as a restyled rear, to further differentiate itself from the Lancer Evolution and for a more modern appearance.

North America

In North America, additional minor styling changes also occurred for 2005 and 2006. For the 2005 model year, the grille was changed to include more fins to reflect a closer similarity to the North American Galant. For the 2006 model year, the fascia was changed again from a bridged fascia to one with an open vent after Mitsubishi received complaints from current owners regarding its similarity in appearance to General Motors Division Pontiac's corporate look, and to bring the appearance closer to its bigger brother, the Evolution.

Ralliart

In addition to the facelift, North America received two additional models to the Lancer line in 2004 - Sportback and Ralliart. The latter slated in between the base and high performance Evolution model. Both the Sportback and Ralliart had high levels of equipment, based on the Australian Lancer VR-X. The main difference being that these cars came equipped with Mitsubishi's 2.4 L4G69 engine (rated at 160 hp (119 kW)/162 ft·lbf for the Sportback, and 162 hp (121 kW)/162 ft·lbf for the Ralliart), included a new, stiffer suspension package that improved handling and lowered the cars stance by 1 centimeter, 16" alloy wheels, front bucket seats borrowed from Japan's Mitsubishi Evolution GT-A, Fog Lamps, and a new aerodynamic ground package. The Ralliart also came equipped with a cosmetic rear deck spoiler, and clear rear tail lights. The Sportback was equipped with a 4-speed INVECS-II automatic transmission, with no option for a manual transmission, while the Ralliart came with a 5-speed manual transmission with an option for the 4-speed automatic. The Sportback was also available in the lower spec LS trim.

Due to Mitsubishi's deteriorating financial situation and slow sales, the Lancer Sportback wagon was cancelled in the United States one year after its release. But the Mitsubishi Lancer wagon was sold in Canada, Japan, Europe, Australia and New Zealand until its demise in 2006.

Australia

The 2003 facelift introduced a heavily updated VR-X, which included new 16" alloys, stiffer suspension, body styling kit, and gear shifter borrowed from the Lancer Evolution. In 2004, the new Lancer wagon was introduced as a direct replacement for its ageing predecessor).

In August 2005, all Lancers were upgraded to the 2.4 L 4G69 engine, producing 115 kW (154 hp) and 220 N·m (162 ft·lbf) of torque. The upgraded engine also saw a change in trim levels and upgraded equipment—the ES and LS models now featured a more upmarket looking black interior, while the VR-X gained a new black grille to closer resemble the Lancer Evolution IX. The equipment levels of all models were also upgraded, with the LS and VR-X gaining climate control, and a premium audio system sourced from the luxury Mitsubishi Verada. The Exceed model was discontinued, and all updated models now used JDM sized rear bumpers instead of the larger USDM sized versions. Additionally, the wagon also saw these changes; and as of 2007, continues to be sold alongside the sedan.

The ES and LS models were given a minor facelift for the 2007 model year; this time gaining the same front grille as the US models, and putting it into line with the current corporate look—similar to that of the Colt and the locally built 380. Prior to the introduction of the all-new ninth generation Lancer, a limited edition ES model dubbed 'Velocity' went on sale. This package included VR-X grill, rear spoiler, leather/alcantara bolsted seats, sports pedals, 15" OZ alloy wheels and chrome exhaust tip—all for the same price as the previous standard ES.

Other markets

In Japan, the Lancer Cedia was offered with many different trim levels and engines, including options which were never seen in export markets. It was also one of the first models to use the INVECS-III CVT transmission. There was also a Ralliart version of the sportswagon which was powered by a turbocharged 1.8 L GDI engine. As of 2007, the eighth generation Lancer sedan is still being sold alongside the new ninth generation, which is known in the home market as the Galant Fortis.

In Pakistan, this variant was launched in 2005 with cosmetic changes from the front and the back. Thai production was switched to the new model, and in all markets except for India the seventh-generation model was no longer marketed, four years after the Cedia's introduction.

India received the new Lancer in 2006, known locally as the Mitsubishi Cedia to distinguish it from this version that is still assembled and sold as the Lancer because of its continued popularity.

In some European markets, the Lancer began to take the place of the Carisma in 2004. It is powered by a 1.3 L SOHC 4G13, 1.6 L SOHC 4G18 engine and a 2.0 L DOHC 4G63 (all 4-cylinder).

In Mexico, the Lancer was available in DE, ES, LS and GS trims with a 2.0 L DOHC 4G63 engine. There were no estate versions: only the four-door saloon.

In Malaysia, the Lancer was made available after Mitsubishi had sold all its shares in Malaysian carmaker Proton, marking the return of Mitsubishi in Malaysian market after being absent since 1985 due to the agreement with Proton. The Lancer sold in Malaysia was powered by the 4G18 engine which also powered the early 1.6 Proton Waja model.

In 2005, Mitsubishi revealed the Concept-X model car at the Tokyo Motor Show and its Concept-Sportback model at the Frankfurt motor show. The new Lancer is based on these two concepts. The new Lancer was officially revealed in January 2007 at the Detroit Motor Show and went on sale in North American markets on March 2007. New Lancer features Mitsubishi's next-generation RISE safety body.

North America

For the United States, the new Lancer is available initially in DE, ES, and GTS trim levels. All three are powered by a GEMA based 4B11, 2.0 liter DOHC engine outputting 152 hp (113 kW) (except for California models which have been detuned to 143 hp (107 kW) to meet regulations). Transmission options include a brand new CVT, sourced from Jatco (code: F1CJA), alongside a regular 5-speed manual sourced from Aisin AI (code: F5MBB). GTS models will be getting a 6-speed (fixed gears in sport mode), paddle shift version of the CVT.

In Canada, a fourth model (SE) was introduced to the Lancer lineup late in the model year. The SE model is a cross between the ES and GTS models. The SE is an ES model, dressed to look like the GTS. It includes the skirt package similar to the GTS, a rear spoiler, and unlike the GTS model, the SE includes a sunroof. The goodies not included in the SE model that are found in the GTS are the FAST key, Bluetooth hands-free cell phone interface, automatic climate control, Rockford Fosgate sound system, carbon fiber trim peices, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and of course the 18" wheels.

The 2.4 L 4B12 engine will be offered on the GTS for the 2009 model year.[2]

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (North America)

The Lancer Ralliart will also return for 2009. It is slated in between the Lancer GTS and the high performance Lancer Evolution model. Announced in January 2008, it will compete directly with the Subaru Impreza WRX. Using the 2.0 L turbocharged 4B11 I4 engine from the upcoming Evo X paired with different cams and a slightly slower turbo, producing 235 hp (175 kW) and 253 ft·lbf (343 N·m) of torque, while using the all wheel drive system of the Evolution IX. The car will initially be offered only with Mitsubishi's new TC-SST dual-clutch transmission.

Australia

The Lancer was released in Australia in October 2007.[3] It will come in ES, VR and VRX trim levels. Active stability control and traction control will be standard on all models. Standard on the ES will be dual front airbags and a driver knee airbag. The VR and VRX will get side and curtain airbags also. It will have a 2 litre 4B11, 113 kW (152 hp) engine and be equipped with a 5-speed manual or with a 6 speed CVT transmission as a $AUD2300 option. A Ralliart model will follow, and a Lancer Evolution will also make the line up.

Asia

With the exception of the Lancer Evolution X, the Lancer is marketed as the Galant Fortis (Latin for strong, steadfast and courageous) in the Japanese domestic market[4]. It comes in 3 trim levels Exceed, Super Exceed and Sport.[5].

The new Lancer was released on September 15, 2007 in Taiwan and has been named Lancer Fortis. It's powered by a 4B11, 2.0 litre DOHC engine outputting 157 hp (117 kW) and the transmission is a 6-speed (fixed gears in sport mode) version of the CVT. However, unlike other Lancer models in USA and Japan, Mitsubishi has changed the front and rear ends to make it look like a family car.

Due to popular demand of the 7th-gen Lancer in Singapore, it will continue to be sold alongside the new Lancer which will be called the Lancer EX to differentiate itself from the former. The 1.5l, 2.0l and the GTS (marketed as the GT) variants are available in Singapore.

In Malaysia, only the GTS is offered and is marketed as the 2.0GT.

Hong Kong received its unique edition of the Lancer in 2008, dubbed the Lancer 2.0. The car comes in two trim levels, without a name for either of them. Both are equipped with the 4B11 2.0 4 cylinder engine, 7 airbags, 8 speaker stereo system (manufacturer not known), Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) with HID as well as 18" alloy wheels. The upper trim has Ralliart style body kit which includes a revised front bumper, side skirt, rear bumper with diffuser and the addition of a correct-to-Evolution-X rear spoiler,while the lower trim make do without the abovementioned features.

Chile

To differentiate it from the previous model, still on sale, this generation Lancer is marketed as Lancer Serie R in Chile.

Europe

In Europe , diesel model also available with 2000 cc diesel engine .

Lancer Ralliart

A detuned and cheaper version of the Evo X was announced at the 2008 Detroit auto show. This model will have 177 kW (237 hp), 343 N·m (253 ft·lbf) of torque. For 2009, the Ralliart will be available exclusively with the TC-SST transmission, although Mitsubishi has suggested the possibility of a 5-speed transmission at a later date. The car also includes a simplified version of the Evolution's AWD system, with a simple "mechanical limited slip" rear differential.[6]